How Long Do Ankle Biter Mosquitoes Live?

Several invasive mosquito species have been identified in California and other parts of the United States. They are a major cause of bug bites. Many homeowners are desperate to find a way to get rid of them. The average life cycle for these insects is three weeks. However, some species can live out of sight for months.

They can breed in trashcans, flower pots, and even single bottle caps. The female mosquito lays eggs in these containers and nearby water sources. The eggs are hardened and resistant to desiccation. The larvae are born when water fills the container. They breathe by piercing the roots of aquatic plants. The larvae develop into pupae and then grow into adults.

Aedes mosquitoes are a common daytime biteer. They prefer to feed on birds and mammals, although they can bite humans. They have a tendency to breed in open water sources, such as storm water management basins, puddles, or trashcans. They are aggressive biters and they bite repeatedly, often during the day. They have been known to spread West Nile virus and other dangerous diseases in California.

The typical lifespan of an adult mosquito is three weeks, but some species can live out of sight for months. This means that even the most standard mosquito-fighting technique is not going to work.

In Southern California, the Aedes “ankle-biter” mosquito is responsible for the majority of bug bites. These insects have been known to bite multiple times in a single sitting. They can easily slip through cracks in windows and screen doors. Their aggressive nature means that they are more likely to attack inside homes than outdoors.